Which spherical magnet do you choose?
A ball magnet is a spherical neodymium magnet. It clicks into place from any position and forms chains, rings, and shapes with other balls. For this reason, balls are primarily used for creative and educational constructions, model building, and prototypes, rather than for holding weight. Below you can read which size is suitable. If you want to choose a magnet for a specific application, try the Magnet Advisor.
Quick selection by application
| Application | Size | Holding power (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Model building, small figures and puzzles | Ø3.175 mm | 160 g |
| Creative chains and bracelet shapes, desk toys for adults | Ø5 mm | 410 g |
| Prototypes and educational setups | Ø8 mm | 1.0 kg |
| Magnetic connections and hobby projects | Ø12.7 mm | 2.6 kg |
| Demonstrations and heavier hobby projects | Ø19 mm | 5.9 kg |
| Large demonstrations, powerful connections | Ø26 mm | 11.0 kg |
All sizes are listed in the ball magnet collection: Ø3.175, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12.7, 15, 19, and 26 mm. Ø5 mm is also available in rose gold, black epoxy, and silver-colored finishes.
Ball or disc?
A sphere touches a flat steel plate at a single point. As a result, the holding power of a ball is lower than that of a disc or block magnet of comparable size. If you need a magnet to hold something in place, choose a disc magnet or block magnet. Choose a ball if the shape itself is the goal: building, stacking, creating figures, or a magnetic point that attracts in any position.
What to look out for
- Safety: small balls can be swallowed. If multiple magnets are swallowed, they can attract each other in the body and cause serious injury. Keep ball magnets out of reach of children and seek immediate medical attention if swallowed.
- Finish: the standard NiCuNi coating contains nickel. Only use balls in jewelry if they are enclosed and not against the skin. The colored Ø5 mm variants are intended for visible applications such as decorations and displays.
- Temperature: the Ø3.175 to Ø19 mm balls are specified up to 80 °C.
- Holding power: the values stated were measured under ideal conditions on a flat steel plate. Read how holding power is determined.
- Collisions: larger balls attract each other with force; keep your fingers away.
